In an interview with French newspaper L’Equipe, the ‘keeper said, “It really bothers me that the coach is being blamed.”

So if it is the Spurs players who should be held to account for the club’s poor showings then which stars could be doing much more at White Hart Lane.

Here we take a look at five Tottenham players who must up their games in the weeks and months ahead:

Younes Kaboul

Given Spurs’ defensive showings this season most of their back-line has come in for criticism, but while Federico Fazio and Danny Rose have taken the brunt of it, their captain has been woefully shy of his best.

Questions were asked when Younes Kaboul was made Pochettino’s captain but that decision has been made and the Frenchman has to step up and show he can command a defence, solving their problems rather than adding to them.

Emmanuel Adebayor

Emmanuel Adebayor recently came under fire for allegedly criticising his own fans, although the Togo striker later came out to deny that was his intention. But either way, the former Manchester City forward has a role of his own – as vice-captain – and his goal-return has not been anywhere near what it should be this season.

Two goals in 12 appearances is woeful for a player with such experience and ability and he must improve following the international break.

Christian Eriksen

It may appear harsh to criticise Christian Eriksen but the Danish international has to shoulder some of the blame. Three goals in the Premier League is not a bad return for the play-maker but he is yet to provide a single assist this season – something he is famed for.

Of course part of that is down to the poor finishing of his teammates but he must try harder to influence matches, especially when you consider he provided 12 assists last season. Having now settled in North London, it is also time he really stamped his authority on games. After all, his talent is undeniable.

Ben Davies

Many fans have questioned why Danny Rose continues to be picked ahead of summer signing – and natural left-back – Ben Davies. But the fact is the Welshman has not done enough to prove to Pochettino that he should be a regular starter.

His performances in the Europa League have been hit-and-miss and considering Tottenham’s outlay it is time Davies recreated the form that prompted that move in the first place. It is easy to blame Rose, but why isn’t Davies making himself indispensable.

Etienne Capoue

Etienne Capoue appears to have impressed Pochettino to such a degree that he is a first-choice pick for Tottenham this season. But is he really doing enough to justify his position in the team ahead of the likes of summer signing Benjamin Stambouli?

Spurs have plenty of midfielders but no stand-out stars and Capoue must be included in that list. Pochettino clearly rates him but he does not offer enough protection to the back-line, as proved by the fact that Tottenham have already shipped 16 goals this season.

Vincent Ralph

After graduating with a degree in English Literature, Vincent completed a NCTJ-accredited qualification in newspaper and magazine journalism in 2005. He has worked for HITC for four years and is now Head of Editorial and Journalist Standards.